The situation in Gaza is heart-breaking, horrific and outrageous. Many of us have demonstrated, written to our public officials, and donated to get food and medical aid into Gaza. There is not a ceasefire; there is not adequate food; there are people getting killed in trying to get food. But … there is something that can be done and which will benefit hundreds of children in Gaza. Healing Across the Divides (HATD), a Northampton-based not-for-profit organization established in 2002, has identified a way to get support services to the children of Gaza and has launched an emergency fundraising campaign to do so. Dr. Norbert Goldfield, a local physician, is the founder and executive director of HATD and I am a member of its board of directors.
At a time when the children and families of Gaza are facing unimaginable hardship, with basic food and medical supplies blocked from entering, access to essential psychosocial and social services has become more critical than ever. Prolonged conflict, repeated displacement, and constant exposure to violence have left deep emotional scars on children, while families struggle to cope with overwhelming stress and trauma. The fundraising campaign will support vital psychosocial services and health awareness initiatives. This effort is not only a lifeline, but also an urgent humanitarian imperative to protect the well-being and dignity of Gaza’s most vulnerable.
While the government of Israel does not allow us to provide food, water, electricity, or medical supplies directly, we can deliver meaningful support, temporary relief, and even moments of joy to those who are suffering. With funds raised, three human service organizations based in the West Bank will bring critical services to Gaza. Given the circumstances in the West Bank and Gaza, we cannot name the organizations which will be funded; however, we have partnered with and provided grant funding to these organizations in the past and can vouch for their unique qualifications to provide impactful, trauma-informed care. We have total confidence in their capacity and professionalism. These organizations have staff in Gaza with whom they maintain communication. The services are designed with flexibility in mind and will accommodate the instability of displacement while still providing meaningful psychosocial support.
These services are:
*A project using creative expression to help children process trauma and regain a sense of safety. Through storytelling, drawing, movement, and puppetry, trained facilitators will serve 300 children, ages 6-14, as well as involve 30 caregivers to extend the impact of emotional support at home. The initiative will culminate in a community art exhibition celebrating the resilience of Gaza’s children.
*A project to provide trauma-informed sessions that uses play, movement and connection to promote healing, emotional expression, and resilience. Guided by trained facilitators, these sessions will provide children with a safe space to process their experiences and rebuild their sense of hope. Activities are all designed to help children release stress, build friendships, and strengthen coping skills.
*A project to establish a dedicated diabetes care and information point centrally located within Al-Shate Camp, home to approximately 10,000 residents. This hub will offer diabetes education, consultation, and support, staffed by specialists including diabetologists, nurses, nutritionists, and social workers. Additionally, community health volunteers will conduct household visits to raise awareness, distribute educational materials and identify patients in need of care.
To date, the HATD Board of Directors has contributed $28,000 towards this campaign and we are hoping to raise an additional $28,000. Every dollar raised will go directly to the services in Gaza, ensuring that your contribution has an immediate and tangible impact. As one of the organizations to be funded stated: This initiative will provide children with the space to come together, share their feelings, pain, and stories. Every session will count toward healing or, at the very least, a sense of normalcy in an otherwise abnormal world.
We are asking our neighbors here at home to join with us to bring rays of hope to so many children living in darkness.
To make a donation, please go to https://healingdivides.org/donate/ or mail a check to Healing Across the Divides, P.O. Box 217, Hatfield, MA 01038. For more information: Contact Dr. Norbert Goldfield, norbert@healingdivides.org or 413-800-2680
Ellen Koteen lives in Easthampton.